Patriotic Essay Example

… Patriotism and Okadas “No No Boy”
The current war in Iraq has brought out displays of patriotic fervor throughout the country. People proudly display the American flag on their homes and cars. Even Major League Baseball has replaced the traditional seventh inning song Take Me Out to the Ballgame with a stirring rendition of God Bless America.
However, for the people protesting the war, these surface displays are an inadequate indicator of patriotism. Though currently in the minority, the protesters locate their patriotism in speaking out against the war and in shielding their country from the winds of war.
Though both camps differ in their definitions of patriotism, they both share an important concept. The Webster Dictionary defines patriotism as love or devotion to ones country. Despite their difference in views, both protesters and those who support the war in Iraq are motivated by a strong devotion to the interests of the United States.
It is thus interesting to note how this common definition gives rise to completely opposite views. For many protesters, there is no more patriotic act than agitating for peace. There is nothing inherently unpatriotic about taking a stand against the presidents wrong decisions. …